A sector-wide capability framework that strengthens safeguarding practice, culture and confidence
The Together for Safeguarding – Workforce Capability Framework was developed to support a consistent, confident and skilled safeguarding workforce across Queensland. It provides clear expectations for safeguarding capability at every level of an organisation, from frontline practitioners to senior leaders and boards, ensuring that safeguarding is embedded in everyday practice, culture and decision-making.
Developed collaboratively with practitioners, leaders, community partners and people with lived experience, the framework is practical, accessible and grounded in trauma-informed and culturally responsive practice. It helps organisations build a workforce that is safe, skilled and equipped to protect children and young people.
What the Framework Includes:
Clear safeguarding capabilities
A structured set of core capabilities that outline the knowledge, skills and behaviours required to deliver safe, high-quality safeguarding practice.
Role-specific expectations
Guidance tailored to different roles, including practitioners, supervisors, managers and leaders, to support clarity, accountability, and consistent practice.
Practice behaviours aligned with national and Queensland standards
Behavioural indicators that reflect best practice and align with the Queensland Child Safe Standards and Universal Principle.
Tools for supervision, training and workforce development
Practical tools that support reflective supervision, capability assessment, professional development planning and ongoing learning.
Guidance for leaders and boards
Clear expectations for governance, oversight and organisational culture, helping leaders create the conditions for safe, accountable and child-centred practice.
Why The Framework Matters
Consistency strengthens safety
When safeguarding expectations are clear and consistent, children and young people experience safer, more predictable and more responsive care.
Workforce capability is central to child safety
Skilled, confident practitioners are better equipped to identify risk, respond to harm and support children’s wellbeing.
Leaders shape culture
The framework helps leaders understand their role in modelling safeguarding behaviours, strengthening governance and building a culture of accountability.
Cultural safety is non-negotiable
The framework embeds culturally responsive practice and supports organisations to uphold the rights, identity and cultural needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, young people and families.
Practical tools drive real-world change
The framework is designed for everyday use, in supervision, training, recruitment, performance development and organisational planning.
How Organisations Use the Framework
Organisations across the sector use the framework to:
- strengthen safeguarding capability across teams
- guide recruitment, onboarding and workforce development
- support reflective supervision and practice coaching
- align practice with national standards and best-practice approaches
- clarify expectations for practitioners, leaders and boards
- build a shared language and understanding of safeguarding
- embed cultural safety and trauma-informed practice
- strengthen governance and accountability
The framework is flexible and adaptable, supporting organisations of all sizes and contexts.
Impact
The Together for Safeguarding – Workforce Capability Framework has supported organisations to:
- uplift safeguarding capability across the workforce
- strengthen cultural safety and community-led practice
- embed consistent, high-quality safeguarding behaviours
- improve supervision, training and professional development
- clarify expectations and strengthen accountability
- build safer organisational cultures
- align practice with national standards and reform directions
It can be used across government, community organisations, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisations and multi-service providers.
Let’s talk
If you would like to learn more about the Together for Safeguarding – Workforce Capability Framework, or explore how we can support your organisation to strengthen safeguarding capability and culture, we would love to connect.